Hampshire County Council has approved a massive £1 billion budget aimed at improving transport, schools, and environmental projects across the region
Hampshire: This week, Cllr Kirsty North gave the thumbs up to a huge budget. A whopping 75% of it will go towards highways and transport. The rest is split between property, recreation, and environmental projects.
They’re looking at £899.55 million from external funding and £242 million from local sources. That’s a lot of cash to make some serious improvements!
There are over 90 highway projects lined up, plus six schools will get some much-needed upgrades. They’re also building a new materials recovery facility in Eastleigh, which is set to cost £50.5 million.
Cllr North mentioned that despite the hurdles they face, this capital programme is a big deal and will bring in a lot of investment.
Among the highway projects, the M27 Junction 10 plan is getting a budget boost from £97.5 million to £113.5 million. This revamp will help support new homes and jobs at Welborne Garden Village near Fareham.
There’s also the new Botley Bypass, which has an increased budget of £48.22 million, and the Havant Footbridge replacement project is expected to kick off in 2026.
The property services department, which manages council buildings, including schools, has a budget of £185 million. Six schools are being added to the improvement programme, focusing on re-roofing and thermal upgrades.
Schools like Bursledon Junior and Gomer Infant in Gosport are on the list for these upgrades. Plus, they’re investing £1.5 million to boost energy efficiency in council buildings.
For recreation, there’s a £24 million budget, which includes an extra £655,000 for Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve. They’re also planning improvements at several country parks.
Lastly, the waste and environment sector will see £78.5 million, including the new materials recovery facility in Eastleigh, expected to open by 2027.
